The real actual GPS-based (Global Positioning System) navigational application was started by U.S. Department of Defense. As probably guessed, the application was limited to be available for military affairs only. Satellite system TRANSIT did go up and were operating since 1960, but only in approximately 20 years later that accurate navigational system is available to use. Basic improvement was conducted by adding multiple satellites to deliver precise positioning system. In 1980s, GPS-based navigational system was beginning to be open for public, not merely for military services. However, military was adding interference signals in purpose of limiting the accuracy of any other party taking benefits from the same technology. It would take another 20-year before the military stopped the interference to the signals for the public to have the same privilege to possess accurate navigational system from the satellites. Bill Clinton, who was at that time the President of United States of America, is the one who gave the order. Almost in an instant, the doors for larger improvements and innovations in electronic world were widely open.
Global Positioning System works by applying both Einstein’s General and Special Theory of Relativity. They are the most fundamental theories that most people do not realize; they have no idea that the small and portable gadget in their hands is the real application from the likely smartest man on Earth ever lived. Multiple satellites are looking at the time stamp, triangulating your position and tell you where you are by calculating the distance between you and the satellites and the distance between satellites to another that makes the triangulation. General and Special Theory of Relativity make us learn that the clock (time) on Earth is moving slightly slower than one in the satellite. Another important thing is that moving clocks are slower than ones in still position. Although the approximation is only in a tiny scale (sometimes considered immeasurable), the accuracy can be greatly decreased. It is known that the difference is at 38 milliseconds a day; nevertheless, if GPS did not put this in the formula of calculation, you can be reported as miles away from your exact position.
The Internet is a rescuer for the success of GPS navigation system. Computer-generated calculation and turn-by-turn navigational is now a piece of cake. To name one, it will be MapQuest that makes it easier than ever. The service and many other similar websites deliver accurate information of the locations of unlikely available stops such as hotels and gas stations. Business industry that rely on driving assistance also take the most benefits of such improvement; for example, freight services, real estate agents, and more.
Portable GPS was a real deal innovation in mid-2000s; let us say some companies such as Garmin, Magellan, Mio, and TomTom were flooding the markets with GPS navigation systems. Most of the units in the market usually include ready to use software to make any navigational assistance; such things make everything easier. The competition in the market and the declining economic forces some companies to shut down the business. Now, we can only consider that there are three major brands to outstand in the market, which are Garmin, Magellan, and TomTom. Now GPA navigation systems in portable gadgets are available with friendlier price tag; you can even find last years models under $100.